Xbox has become a household name since its launch in 2001, standing tall among the top three console brands available today. Microsoft's journey with Xbox has been marked by innovation and expansion, not just in gaming but also into TV, multimedia, and the revolutionary Xbox Game Pass subscription service. As we approach the midpoint of the current console generation, it's the perfect time to explore the rich history of Xbox consoles.
AnswerSee ResultsLooking to save on an Xbox or new titles for your system? Be sure to check out the best Xbox deals available today.How Many Xbox Consoles Have There Been?
In total, Microsoft has released nine Xbox consoles spanning four generations. The journey began with the first Xbox in 2001, and since then, each new release has brought enhanced hardware, new controllers, and other exciting features. This count includes console revisions, which offered improved cooling, faster speeds, and more.
Latest Budget Option### Xbox Series S (512GB - Robot White)
1See it at AmazonEvery Xbox Console in Order of Release
Xbox - November 15, 2001
November 2001 saw the debut of the Xbox, entering the market as a formidable competitor to the Nintendo GameCube and Sony PlayStation 2. This pioneering console from Microsoft launched the Xbox brand, with Halo: Combat Evolved as its blockbuster launch title. This game not only helped Xbox capture a significant share of the console market but also set the stage for a legacy that continues to thrive over two decades later. Many of the original Xbox's best games remain cherished classics.
Xbox 360 - November 22, 2005
With the release of the Xbox 360, Microsoft's second console solidified its place in the gaming world. By this time, Xbox was a recognized name, especially known for its emphasis on multiplayer gaming. The Xbox 360 introduced groundbreaking features, including the Kinect motion tracking system. It became the best-selling Xbox console to date, with over 84 million units sold, and its games continue to be celebrated.
Xbox 360 S - June 18, 2010
Image Credit: iFixitThe Xbox 360 S was designed with a slimmer profile and significant internal upgrades. It tackled the infamous "Red Ring of Death" issue with a completely redesigned cooling system. The 360 S also offered increased hard drive space, up to 320GB, across its various models.
Xbox 360 E - June 10, 2013
Image Credit: iFixitThe Xbox 360 E stands out as a unique release, arriving just months before the Xbox One. Its design was tailored to complement the upcoming Xbox One, featuring slimmer and less rounded edges. It was the last Xbox to sport a pop-out disc drive, as subsequent models integrated the drive internally.
Xbox One - November 22, 2013
Image Credit: iFixitXbox One marked the beginning of Microsoft's third console generation, introducing enhanced power and a broader range of applications. The Kinect 2.0 and a newly redesigned controller, which prioritized comfort and ease of use, debuted alongside it. This controller design continues to be the basis for subsequent models with minor tweaks.
Xbox One S - August 2, 2016
Xbox One S was the first Xbox to support 4K output and function as a 4K Blu-ray player, positioning it as an all-in-one entertainment system. Games were upscaled to 4K, and the console was 40% smaller than its predecessor, making it easier to fit into modern living spaces.
Xbox One X - November 7, 2017
Xbox One X was the final console in the Xbox One line, introducing true 4K gameplay. Its GPU boasted a 31% performance increase over the original Xbox One, with advanced cooling to manage increased heat. The console significantly improved the performance of numerous Xbox One titles, including Halo 5: Guardians, Cyberpunk 2077, and Forza Horizon 4.
Xbox Series X - November 10, 2020
Unveiled at The Game Awards 2019, the Xbox Series X supports up to 120 frames per second, Dolby Vision, and can enhance the performance of older games. Its standout feature, Quick Resume, allows seamless transitions between multiple games. Currently, the Series X remains Microsoft's flagship console, hosting some of the best modern games available.
Xbox Series S - November 10, 2020
Launching alongside the Series X, the Xbox Series S offers a more affordable entry into the Xbox ecosystem. This digital-only console, priced at $299, features 512GB of storage and supports up to 1440p resolution. In 2023, a 1TB model was introduced, providing more storage options for gamers.
